Rahul SomvanshiTesla has officially released a factory-installed tow package for the 2024 Model 3 in North America, ending years of waiting for many owners. The package, priced at $1,300 in the United States and $1,765 in Canada, is only compatible with the redesigned “Highland” Model 3 in both Rear-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive versions.
The tow package includes a high-strength steel tow bar with a standard 2-inch receiver, a North American 7-pin connector for trailer lights, and a complete trailer harness. Installation at a Tesla Service Center is included in the price.
Perhaps most importantly, the package enables “Tow Mode” software, which optimizes the vehicle’s systems for towing. This feature adjusts power delivery, stability control, and provides more accurate range estimates when pulling a trailer.
The tow package allows Model 3 owners to pull up to 2,200 pounds (998 kg), which is enough for light-duty tasks like hauling bikes, small watercraft, or camping gear. This capacity is lower than the 3,500 pounds (1,587 kg) available on Tesla’s Model Y, Model S, and Model X.
When not in use, the hitch receiver can be removed and stored, with the connection point hidden behind a panel for a clean look.
For years, North American Tesla Model 3 owners have had to rely on aftermarket solutions like EcoHitch or Stealth Hitch, which often raised warranty concerns and lacked the integrated software features of an official Tesla product.
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“It’s nice to see Tesla finally adding this much-missed feature to the North American Model 3, as many customers have had to use third-party solutions up to this point,” noted one report from Not a Tesla App.
The launch brings North American Model 3s in line with European, Australian, and Asian markets, where factory tow packages have been available for years.
There are some limitations to note. The tow package is not compatible with pre-2024 Model 3s or with the Performance version of the current Model 3, likely due to the larger rear motor in the Performance model.
Early user reactions have been mixed. While many welcome the official solution, some users who have experience with similar packages in other markets have criticized the manual nature of the hitch. Unlike some European luxury vehicles that offer electrically retractable tow bars, Tesla’s solution requires manually attaching and detaching the receiver.
One Reddit user commented that if the North American version is similar to the UK factory package, “it’s flat out the worst part of the car and significantly worse value than factory tow bars from BMW, Mercedes, Audi, Volvo, etc.”
For Model 3 owners wanting to tow trailers or carry bike racks while maintaining their warranty, this official option provides a long-awaited solution, despite its limitations.
